Atalanta could start with Alejandro Gomez as a false nine against Shakhtar Donetsk tonight, in a case or do-or-die for Gian Piero Gasperini’s side.
Papu returns to Ukraine for the first time since his spell with Metalist Kharkiv during the 2013-14 campaign.
He could be used in an attacking trident with Mario Pasalic and Ukraine international Ruslan Malinovskyi, with Duvan Zapata still out and Luis Muriel set to be benched.
Atalanta could start with Alejandro Gomez as a false nine against Shakhtar Donetsk tonight, in a case or do-or-die for Gian Piero Gasperini’s side.
Papu returns to Ukraine for the first time since his spell with Metalist Kharkiv during the 2013-14 campaign.
He could be used in an attacking trident with Mario Pasalic and Ukraine international Ruslan Malinovskyi, with Duvan Zapata still out and Luis Muriel set to be benched.
In defence, Rafael Toloi is unavailable through suspension, whilst Simon Kjaer and Josip Ilicic are also sidelined with injuries.
Between the sticks, Pierluigi Gollini takes his usual place behind a trio consisting of Berat Djimsiti, Jose Luis Palomino and Andrea Masiello.
Marten de Roon will probably get the nod in the middle, partnered by Remo Freuler.
The Dea will have to be very careful, though, as the prolific Junior Moraes will most likely lead Shakhtar’s attack.
The Brazilian already has 16 goals in just 22 games this season, and he should have Marlos, Viktor Kovalenko and ex-Milan target Taison for support.
Taras Stepanenko balances the midfield, whilst Andriy Pyatov will guard the net behind the back four.
Shakhtar Donetsk (probable): Pyatov; Dodo, Kryvtsov, Matviyenko, Ismaily; Alan Patrick, Stepanenko; Marlos, Kovalenko, Taison; Junior Moraes
Atalanta (probable): Gollini; Djimsiti, Palomino, Masiello; Hateboer, De Roon, Freuler, Gosens; Malinovskyi, Pasalic; Gomez
Referee: Zwayer (GER)